Trending in China

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Sep 2025

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China biz news, industry analysis and government policy interpretation pekingensight.substack.com

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September 19, 20251 hr 6 min

An American Ceramist in Jingdezhen: Code, Clay and Community

"I sold everything... I was all in. I put in all my chips." With this leap of faith, American ceramic artist Michael May left behind his life in the United States and arrived in Jingdezhen, China's porcelain capital, a year and a half ago. Having traveled to nearly 20 countries, the seasoned artist ultimately chose Jingdezhen as his creative base.In the latest episode of "Trending in China", Michael shares his unique journey from Oklahoma City to Jingdezhen with host Yolanda Lu and co-host Belinda Chen. With a background in traditional techniques and a passion for innovation, he now blends 3D printing technology with traditional pottery, creating works that marry form with function.He delves into the city's collaborative spirit, learning from master craftsmen who spend lifetimes perfecting their art, and finding his tribe among the growing community of "Yang Jing Piao" (foreign expats living in Jingdezhen). Michael explains why this relentless pursuit of craftsmanship drives him to become better and why he believes "this is so far the best and the smartest place for a potter to be."Highlights:00:03:03 - Michael's journey from Oklahoma to Jingdezhen00:04:12 - First impressions of the city and its pottery culture00:07:10 - Traveled to nearly 20 countries before settling here00:10:07 - Contrasts convenience in Asian cities vs. American life00:11:21 - How ceramics connect people across the globe00:14:00 - Jingdezhen: a small city with a growing "Yang Jing Piao" community00:15:25 - Reflections on whether Jingdezhen feels like home00:19:40 - The paradox of Jingdezhen: small city yet international hub00:29:16 - Why Jingdezhen is ideal for pottery business00:34:23 - Learning traditional techniques from local masters00:40:00 - Initially thought clay 3D printing was "the dumbest"00:42:01 - Decided to go "100% in" on clay printing00:47:05 - Using his foreign identity as a marketing advantage00:51:50 - How Chinese craftsmanship continues to amaze him01:01:18 - Describes Jingdezhen as "happy, beautiful, and old"This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube, among many platforms.You are also more than welcome to check our newsletter where you can find more in-depth sharings around Chinese economy: pekingensight.substack.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pekingensight.substack.com

August 29, 202541 min

When Poets Meet Engineers：Hangzhou's Dance of Code and Classics

In this episode of "Trending in China," we explore Hangzhou—a city where classical charm and cutting-edge innovation intertwine.Joined by commentator Anil from India and local reporter Emma, we delve into how this ancient capital, famed for the poetic West Lake, has transformed into a cradle for "Six Dragons" like DeepSeek and Game Science.We unpack Hangzhou's unique DNA: its rich cultural heritage, a government that acts as a "patient gardener," and a pioneering entrepreneurial spirit. Anil shares his impression of the city evolving from "real" to "remarkable," while Emma defines its soul with three words: "Poetic," "Innovation," and "Inclusiveness."Discover why everyone, from newcomers to long-term residents, feels a sense of belonging that "this city belongs to me." Join us to see how Hangzhou composes a digital symphony where tradition and future resonate in harmony.Highlights:00:01:32: From West Lake to Tech Hub: A City's Evolution 00:03:50: 3 Words for Hangzhou: Poetic, Innovative, Inclusive 00:08:34: Tech Demo: Experiencing 3D Body Scanning 00:10:50: Meet the "Six Tech Dragons" of Hangzhou 00:13:35: Smart Benches: Tech Infused in Daily Life 00:19:51: Government's Role: The "Patient Gardener" 00:23:45: Local DNA: Confidence & Entrepreneurial Spirit 00:29:30: Work-Life Balance: Nature & Tech in Harmony 00:35:13: Final Take: Innovation Needs Roots This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pekingensight.substack.com

August 15, 20251 hr 5 min

Su Chao Fever: How an amateur football league became China’s cultural blockbuster

When 60,000 fans packed a stadium in Nanjing this July for an amateur match, it wasn't superstars they cheered for – but teachers, delivery drivers, and fishmongers representing their hometowns.In this episode, host Yolanda Lu is joined by South African sports journalist Andre and Jiangsu-based reporter Eric to explore China’s surprise summer obsession: Su Super League (苏超), where 13 Jiangsu cities battle in a cultural-defining tournament.Together, we uncover:* Why it went viral: 11B+ views and city-wide public screenings* Economic alchemy: How matchdays fuel local spending surges* Derby magic: Wuxi’s "honey peach" mascots vs Nanjing’s "salted duck" warriors* Everyday heroes: Why part-time players embody China’s sports spirit* The teen revolution: High-school stars rewriting football’s future"People don’t just cheer for goals," says Eric. "They cheer for their city’s soul." Discover how fishmongers became idols – and why this people’s pitch might change Chinese sports forever.Highlights:03:40 League Essence: Amateur 13-city tournament format explained05:09 Stadium Frenzy: 60k crowd in Nanjing-Suzhou showdown05:45 Viral Tsunami: 11B+ short-video views across platforms07:10 Public Energy: "Human waves" in stadiums & city screenings08:33 Derby Fuel: Local rivalries ignite civic pride11:49 Core Appeal: Joy beyond winning/losing14:07 Hidden Roots: China’s deep-seated football passion17:32 Everyday Heroes: Teachers/delivery drivers as players18:57 Fan First: ￥5-20 tickets & heatwave suspensions20:22 Provincial Pride: 90%+ awareness across Jiangsu22:16 Economic Spark: Restaurants/tourism riding matchdays26:30 Sportsmanship Alive: Rival fans get 30% BBQ discount32:04 Teen Talent: High school stars shine on field42:37 City Symbols: Wuxi’s peaches vs Nanjing’s ducks48:48 ￥340M Boom: Single matchday spending surgeThis podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube, among many platforms.You are also more than welcome to check our newsletter where you can find more in-depth sharings around Chinese economy: pekingensight.substack.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pekingensight.substack.com

July 29, 202519 min

Jensen Huang in Beijing: Key Messages from Nvidia's CEO

In this episode of Trending in China, Host Yolanda Lu in Beijing and reporter Merry Wu unpack Nvidia's CEO Jensen Huang's recent Beijing visit. In 20 minutes, we decipher: why China's tech ecosystem left him in awe? Why AI's future demands global collaboration?Fresh off Nvidia's historic $4 trillion milestone, Huang arrived not for victory laps but to champion a radical idea:"AI is the greatest equalizer of anything we have ever done."We unpack his whirlwind agenda: from donning a Tang suit at the China International Supply Chain Expo to open talks with media.Why open-source models like China’s DeepSeek-R1 electrify him? How Chinese EVs became“rolling living rooms"? What's next for Nvidia in China? And how Jensen Huang uses AI? Tune in to Trending in China, where we dive into the latest buzz of the Chinese economy and beyond.Special thanks to Zachary Huang for the interview audio.This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube, among many platforms.You are also more than welcome to check our newsletter where you can find more in-depth sharings around Chinese economy: pekingensight.substack.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pekingensight.substack.com

July 11, 202559 min

The Fermented Road: An Irish Chef's Unlikely Love Affair with Anhui

In the latest episode of "Trending in China", Irish chef Curt Evans reveals his unexpected journey in Anhui. Arriving in Hefei seven years ago for a university exchange program, he planned to stay 10 months but fell for the province’s authenticity. "Anhui is super real--the people are genuine, and it feels like the real China. I didn’t choose Anhui; it chose me."With Michelin kitchen experience, Curt now runs food consulting ventures and restaurants bridging Irish and Huizhou cuisines. He delves into iconic dishes like stinky mandarin fish (臭鳜鱼), born from ancient merchants’ preservation techniques, and hairy tofu (毛豆腐), a frugality-driven innovation: "These stories show how food conveys love when words fail."He finds deep parallels between Anhui and Irish food culture: "Both turned scarcity into creativity—fermenting, curing, and sharing meals as acts of resilience." Tune in to discover Anhui beyond the guidebooks.This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube, among many platforms.You are also more than welcome to check our newsletter where you can find more in-depth sharings around Chinese economy: pekingensight.substack.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pekingensight.substack.com

June 28, 202555 min

Mummies, Roses and Desert Highways: Xinjiang’s Untold Stories

Xinjiang — where scorching deserts bloom with technological marvels and ancient civilizations, forging unity amid breathtaking diversity and economic dynamism. In this episode of Trending in China. Host Yolanda Lu and reporters Cao Bin/Sylvia Wang bring you on an eye-opening journey through Xinjiang—China’s western frontier where deserts bloom with innovation.Discover how "desert roses" defy arid landscapes, how ultra-high-voltage grids transmit wind/solar power to eastern cities in milliseconds, and how tech-driven cotton farms merge nature with cutting-edge tech.The human stories captivate: Highway maintenance couples brave 50℃ heat to guard 522km of desert roads against sandstorms; the 3,800-year-old "Loulan Beauty" mummy reveals Silk Road social hierarchies through her feather hat and jewelry; while Uygur children dancing spontaneously at night markets embody ethnic unity.From oil fields producing cosmetic-grade "white oil" to data centers powered by green energy, Xinjiang turns nature’s gift into synergy. This episode unpacks Xinjiang’s role in the Belt and Road Initiative through cultural gems like the immersive Yotkan ancient city show and bartering at Urumqi’s Grand Bazaar. Tune in to explore how deserts fuel progress, and subscribe for more on China’s untold frontiers!Some Highlights:03:12 Southern Xinjiang’s Transformation Over the Past Decade07:50 Xinjiang’s Deserts: How Trees Survive in Harsh Conditions11:06 Rose Farms Thriving in the Desert12:34 Powering China: Xinjiang’s Solar and Wind Energy Revolution14:02 Technology Reshaping Xinjiang’s Cotton Industry16:30 Must-See Attractions in Urumqi23:00 Karamay’s Digital Transition: From Oil City to Tech Hub28:00 Preserving History: Xinjiang’s Mummies and Their Cultural Significance31:20 Immersive Cultural Experience at Yotkan Ancient City34:50 Reviving the Silk Road: Barkol’s Rich Coal and Clay Resources37:50 Highway Maintenance Couples Guarding 522km of Desert Roads in 50℃ Heat41:03 How the Pairing-Up Program Accelerates Xinjiang’s Development47:20 Xinjiang’s Culinary Journey: Lamb Skewers, Pilaf, and Big Plate ChickenThis podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Little Universe（小宇宙）and YouTube, among many platforms. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pekingensight.substack.com

June 13, 20251 hr 2 min

Tea, Travel & Tales: Timeless Fujian

Dive into the heart of Fujian, China's captivating southeastern coastal province, rich in ancient culture, profound history, and vibrant traditions! In this episode of Trending in China, host Yolanda Lu sits down with two unique perspectives: Andre Bloem, a South African editor experiencing Fujian for the very first time, and Diego Yao, a Fuzhou native and seasoned journalist steeped in local wisdom.Hear Andre's fresh insights as a cultural explorer: What surprised and delighted him? How does Quanzhou and Xiamen resonate through foreign eyes? Then, journey deep with Yao as your local guide, uncovering hidden gems, age-old traditions, and the exciting new trends shaping Fujian today.Whether you're planning a trip or simply fascinated by Chinese regional culture, this compelling conversation offers a rich, multi-layered look into the soul of Fujian. Tune in and unlock the secrets of Fujian!Highlights:06:13 Fujian's tea-drinking culture07:45 Mazu culture in Fujian and how it has influenced the world19:21 Why Xiamen University is the most beautiful university in China22:42 Food culture in Fujian and how it's connected to the rest of the world28:01 How small businesses in Fujian thrive in harmony with nature39:47 Traditions in Fujian/Quanzhou puppet show50:05 Tips of traveling to Fujian/Be aware of the snakes!57:35 Quiz time! Test your knowledge of FujianThis podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube, among many platforms. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pekingensight.substack.com

May 3, 202540 min

Reimagining Rural China: How a young entrepreneur chases dream in the village (Part II)

In this episode of Trending in China, Guo Shanqiuyun 郭山秋韵, an overseas returnee and the honorary village head of Tangjiazhuang Village in east China’s Anhui Province, continues to share her story.Often called "Village CEO," Guo is also the founder of rural tourism projects in Anhui and Yunnan provinces.Part II digs deeper into Tangjiazhuang’s evolution. From profit-driven models to preserving cultural roots, hear how this village is writing its own story of rural development and rural revitalization — and why “taste” might be a secret weapon against social media homogenization.This episode is co-hosed by Zhao Jinzheng 赵金正, a reporter based in Anhui, who loves to share on-the-ground insights from the province.-This podcast, recorded on April 20, is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube, among many platforms. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pekingensight.substack.com

April 30, 202536 min

Reimagining Rural China: How a young entrepreneur chases dream in the village (Part I)

In this episode of Trending in China, host Zhang Yiyi is joined by Guo Shanqiuyun 郭山秋韵, an overseas returnee and the honorary village head of Tangjiazhuang Village in east China’s Anhui Province.Often called "Village CEO," Guo is also the founder of rural tourism projects in Anhui and Yunnan provinces.In Part I, Guo shares her journey from studying abroad to diving headfirst into rural development in Huangshan’s Tangjiazhuang Village. Discover how youthful energy, creative collaborations and national policies are breathing new life into quiet villages.This episode is co-hosed by Zhao Jinzheng 赵金正, a reporter based in Anhui, who loves to share on-the-ground insights from the province.-This podcast, recorded on April 20, is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube, among many platforms. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pekingensight.substack.com

March 21, 202529 min

Rethinking the Game: Insights from the 2025 Global South Financiers Forum

Highlights:06:30 - Jiao Jie on the economic transformation of the Global South10:45 - David Sumual on Alternative Financing: How new funding models are reshaping global financial cooperation21:50 - Marc Uzan on Financial Reform: Challenges facing the Global South in the Bretton Woods system34:00 -The future of financial governance in an increasingly multipolar world This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pekingensight.substack.com